GIVEN LATELY?

Here are 5 (or more) good personal reasons you should

1. Giving makes you HAPPIER. According to a study conducted in 2008 by Harvard Business School professor Michael Norton and his colleagues, participants reported being happier when they gave money to others, than when they spent it on themselves.

2. Giving makes you HEALTHIER. Researcher and stress relief expert, Lauren E. Miller, has found that giving can have the following physiological benefits:

Increased immune system

Improved cognitive performance

Increase in energy

Lower heart rate

Balanced cortisol levels, resulting in less internal stress

More likely to live a longer and more satisfied life

Decreased stress hormones

Lower blood pressure

3. Giving makes sense for your TAXES. If you itemize your deductions, you probably already know that charitable contributions can lead to tax savings, and who doesn't want to save money on their taxes?

4. Giving makes you more LIKEABLE. Giving sparks a sense of gratitude within us. Research by Nathaniel Lambert, of Florida State University, found that expressing gratitude to a friend or romantic partner strengthens our connection to that person. In addition, happiness researcher, Barbara Fredickson, has found that "when you express your gratitude in words or actions, you not only boost your own positivity but [other people's] as well."

5. Giving makes you part of a unique GROUP. Supporting a specific cause creates an inherent connection with others who give to the same cause. Whether being associated with that group gives you a sense of responsibility, belonging, honor or prestige, it can have a highly positive impact in your life.

Secret Reason #6: Giving to USU makes you an ANNUAL USU ALUMNI MEMBER. Now when you give to Utah State University you will also receive an Annual Membership to the Alumni Association, equipped with all the benefits available to our annual members. Visit our Annual Membership webpage for more details.